'Crap' game turns violent

Sunday, September 26, 2004

SIKESTON -- A "crap" game led to an assault then a retaliatory shooting resulting in a search for two Sikeston men.

According to DPS Director Drew Juden, the series of incidents began when officers received a report of a fight and shooting at 10:07 p.m. Thursday at the Cash Box, a convenience store located on West Malone.

Reportedly Lloyd Gilmore, 23, was playing a "crap" dice game in a stall of the car wash with several subjects when he was assaulted from behind by two suspects.

Gilmore told officers he was defending himself when a third man, Gailon Applewhite, 18, pulled out a black handgun and fired several rounds at him. Gilmore then ran from the area and called police.

Although he was not struck by any bullets, Gilmore did receive minor injuries from the assault.

Officers began a search for Applewhite and the other suspects, whose names were not released by DPS pending the filing of warrants by the Scott County Prosecutor's Office.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. Friday, Gilmore sought retaliation for the assault, according to DPS

Witnesses told law enforcement officers an eastbound vehicle on Ruth Street, near its intersection with Clayton Street, was met by a vehicle in which Gilmore was a passenger. Gilmore exited the passenger door and started shooting at the vehicle, which reportedly contained one of the suspects from the previous night's assault. Approximately seven shots were fired.

When the suspect called to report the shooting, he was taken into custody in connection with the earlier assault.

The Department of Public Safety is seeking Applewhite on charges of first degree assault and armed criminal action. Charges of first degree assault and armed criminal action were filed against Gilmore and he is being sought by DPS also. Bond for Applewhite is set at $150,000 while bond for Gilmore is $200,000.

Juden requested anyone with information about the incident or where officers can locate Applewhite or Gilmore to call the DPS at 471-1500. All communications will be kept confidential.